UPDATE: Justin Jefferson Ruled Out with Chest Injury
Justin Jefferson had missed seven consecutive games heading into Week 14 because of a hamstring injury.
However, all seemed well prior to this weekend’s game against the Raiders as he was a full participant in practice throughout the week and did not have a game designation ahead of Sunday afternoon’s matchup. That quickly changed about halfway through the second quarter as Jefferson left the game after taking a massive blow from Raiders defender Marcus Epps.
Justin Jefferson Ruled Out with a Chest Injury
Following the hit after a 15-yard reception, Jefferson appeared shaken up and immediately headed to the blue medical tent. Moments later, the Vikings tweeted, “Justin Jefferson (chest) is questionable to return.”
Jefferson came into the game needing a single yard to break the Vikings franchise record for most receiving yards through a player’s first four seasons. During the second quarter, he broke Randy Moss’ record by catching a 12-yard pass.
A few minutes into the second half, Jefferson was then ruled out by the Vikings, and he was transported to a local hospital out of precautionary measures. Hopefully, the injury proves not to be serious, and he is able to bounce back next weekend.
If Jefferson misses more time, it will put continued pressure on the other Vikings receivers to step up and help the offense. So far, the Vikings have been 5-2 without their star in the lineup, but a very important stretch of games to close the season is approaching.
Vikings Will Be Down an Offensive Lineman in Week 14
Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys running, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.